Events > Tilt-Up Convention and Expo 2026 - Salt Lake City > SESSION

Small Panels, Big Potential

October 22, 2026 from 10:30am to 11:30am Mountain Standard Time

Jeff Griffin, Ph.D., P.E., P.M.P.

Tilt-up construction has traditionally been associated with large-scale commercial and industrial buildings, yet its underlying principles offer significant potential for adaptation to smaller and more constrained project types. This session explores the development of a tilt-up tiny home concept, focusing on how panelization, durability, and construction speed can be translated into residential and small-scale applications. Discussion will address strategies for reducing panel weight to enable erection with commonly available equipment, along with considerations for connection detailing, sequencing, and constructability on limited sites. Drawing from the prototype development process, the session highlights both the technical and logistical factors required to scale this approach and positions it as a pathway for expanding tilt-up into new markets and use cases.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Understand the structural and constructability considerations involved in adapting tilt-up panels for small residential structures.
• Learn strategies for reducing panel weight and equipment requirements to support tilt-up construction on constrained sites.
• Explore the design framework for a modular tilt-up housing system that can be replicated by regional contractors.
• Evaluate emerging market opportunities for tilt-up construction, including affordable housing, resilient housing, and temporary shelter applications.